AIIMS Director P. Venugopal and Ramadoss have had sharp differences of opinion on the manner of faculty appointments. According to the director four senior officials including the dean, have been replaced without him even being consulted. The minister says that he is only attempting to improve matter through such interventions.
Venugopal's worries about institutional autonomy, in fact, bring to light the problem, which ails AIIMS. From the time of its establishment in 1952, AIIMS has always been the leader in medical education, research and referral services. However the recent years has seen AIIMS a few steps behind with patient overload and resource crunch. In addition increased politicization and interference has caused AIIMS to lose its former glory. Ramadoss's current intrusion is a perfect example.